Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy on Friday became a full-fledged Chicago police officer after he completed academy training and took the police officer's oath.
Just after Rahm Emanuel selected McCarthy as his choice to lead the organization, and prior to his confirmation as the city's top cop, McCarthy said he wouldn't don the Chicago police uniform until he earned the right to wear it. His predecessor, Jody Weis, was criticized for wearing the uniform, despite not having police roots.
The superintendent finished classes on Sunday, but took part in a graduation ceremony with other cadets Friday.
"It's a great day. I'm very, very excited. I'm very happy to be back in uniform," said McCarthy after he was installed.
Meanwhile, he's getting to work on high level police matters.
McCarthy said he's made preparations for the coming G8 and NATO summits, which are planned for May 2012 in Chicago.
Police have been training for mass arrests, and the top cop will send representatives to Pittsburgh and Seattle to listen to strategies the police forces learned when the events were held there.
McCarthy also said he has put a deputy superintendent, Debra Kirby, in charge of the city's law enforcement preparations.
Also installed Friday was First Deputy Supt. Alfonza Wysinger, a 25-year veteran of the force.
His remarks brought laughter during a lighter moment to the ceremony when he accidentally thanked the wrong mayor.
"I would also like to thank the superintendant and Mayor Daley for having the confidence they have in me," he said, with an audible gasp coming from the audience. "I'm sorry. Oh my God... I may be the shortest first deputy."
